Changes in the Cost of COVID-19 Vaccinations
Straight talk on how to obtain the updated 2023-24 COVID-19 vaccine at no personal cost.
Why do I have to pay for my COVID-19 vaccination?
Prior to October 2023, in an effort to help reduce the spread of COVID-19, the U.S. Government covered the cost of COVID-19 vaccines. The doses were made available to healthcare providers nationwide and administered to the public at little or no cost.
As of October 6, 2023, the U.S. government no longer covers the COVID-19 vaccine costs. All pharmacies and healthcare providers must now purchase the vaccine commercially and pass those costs on to the individuals who receive it.
Fortunately, you may still be able to mitigate your cost of obtaining the updated 2023-24 COVID-19 vaccine.
How can I reduce or eliminate the cost of COVID-19 vaccination?
The Moultrie County Health Department (MCHD) wants everyone to know how to minimize out-of-pocket expenses for their 2023-24 COVID-19 vaccination. For example, you may be eligible to use:
Medicare:
Medicare Part B covers COVID-19 vaccines for beneficiaries. There is no cost-sharing for the vaccine.
Medicaid:
Medicaid covers COVID-19 vaccines for eligible beneficiaries. There is no cost-sharing for the vaccine.
Vaccines for Children (VFC):
The U.S. government has a Vaccines for Children (VFC) program that provides free vaccines to eligible uninsured and under-insured children. Contact the MCHD or your vaccine provider to check your child's eligibility.
Private health insurance:
Most private health insurance plans are required to cover COVID-19 vaccines. However, it is important to check with your specific plan to confirm the portion of vaccine costs your insurance will pay.
For instance, you may be responsible for deductibles and co-pays that prohibit your insurance from covering the full cost of the COVID-19 vaccine.
The Bridge Access Program:
If you are required to pay for any of the costs associated with the COVID-19 vaccine, you may be eligible to have your vaccine costs covered by the CDC’s Bridge Access program. This program helps uninsured and underinsured individuals with COVID-19 vaccine costs.
Uninsured individuals – Many adults in the U.S. find themselves without health insurance for various reasons. The Bridge Access Program ensures these individuals are not excluded from receiving the COVID-19 vaccine due to a lack of insurance coverage.
Underinsured individuals – Adults with health insurance may also face limitations in their coverage that require them to pay for some or all the costs of obtaining the 2023-24 COVID-19 vaccine.
The Bridge Access Program ensures that every individual (including those who would otherwise be required to pay for the 2023-24 COVID-19 vaccine) can receive the vaccine at no personal cost.
How can I use the Bridge Access Program?
The Moultrie County Health Department (MCHD) is a participating provider of the CDC’s Bridge Access Program. As a result, our office can provide the 2023-24 COVID-19 vaccine to all adults who wish to receive it, regardless of their insurance coverage or ability to pay.
Additional information on the Bridge program and how to locate participating providers throughout the U.S. can be found at vaccines.gov.
Where can I get a 2023-24 COVID-19 vaccine?
If you want to receive the 2023-24 COVID-19 vaccine, please contact our office for an appointment.
- The MCHD accepts Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance coverage.
- The MCHD also provides COVID-19 vaccines through the CDC’s Bridge Access program. This program ensures that all adults can receive the 2023-24 COVID-19 vaccine at no personal cost.
- Our staff can assist you in determining your insurance coverage and possible Bridge Access program eligibility.
We look forward to serving you.